In a significant regulatory development, Crown Melbourne has been granted a two‑year extension, pushing the deadline for implementing mandatory carded play across all table games from December 2025 to December 2027. This adjustment followed newly introduced legislation in Victoria, which acknowledged the technological hurdles associated with deploying systems not foreseen when the Royal Commission’s recommendations were made in 2021.

The Rationale Behind the Delay

The decision reflects practical considerations, particularly technical constraints. Crown is now tasked with expanding its existing carded play technology—already in place for electronic gaming machines—to table gaming segments. According to reports, the delay was necessary due to the current absence of ready-made systems compatible with the Royal Commission’s mandate. Without this extension, Crown could be hard-pressed to comply with regulations before the end-of-year deadline.

What Carded Play Means for Players and the Casino

Carded play is an accountability-driven system requiring players to use a valid, ID-linked card with preset loss and time limits when engaging with gaming options. It’s designed to reduce gambling harm, precommit losses, and curb money laundering. While electronic table games were slated to require such cards by September 2025, the broader table game rollout has now been deferred to December 2027. Implementation for electronic gaming machines has already begun, aligning with Victoria’s broader push for safer gambling frameworks.

Broader Implications for Gambling Reform in Victoria

This extension underscores the evolving nature of Victoria’s gambling reform agenda. The Royal Commission into Crown’s operations triggered sweeping changes, including mandatory carded play and precommitment systems. Victoria’s policymakers now appear committed to balancing ambitious reform targets with realistic timelines—ensuring operators like Crown have the technical bandwidth to adapt without compromising compliance or player safety. The extension also hints at a more measured, phased approach to harm reduction across the entire sector.